Middens (video game)

Lore & Background

Middens was the debut game of John Clowder, who chose RPG Maker XP for its convenience and time-saving qualities. Development took three months, during which Clowder composed the game's music after a falling out with an initial composer. He cited Yume Nikki and Space Funeral as inspirations. The game's plot centers on the Time Nomad, who can freely explore the Rift and kill most NPCs by equipping Genie from the inventory. Killed NPCs remain dead permanently. Some NPCs die immediately upon attack, while others trigger a traditional JRPG-style battle where the Nomad can summon three companions—Lam, Yam, and Om—representing regions of his body's energy. Most NPCs are non-hostile unless attacked, though some may become hostile based on the count of Nothings, which are obtained by winning battles. Occasionally, the player must answer philosophical questions posed by Genie before entering a new area.

Reader's Guide

Middens received generally positive reviews for its surreal art style, tone, and unique world. Critics praised its brilliant, alien setting and consistently interesting writing, with comparisons to 90s role-playing games and surrealist art. Some reviewers noted the game's use of defamiliarization to unnerve and bewitch players. However, the music and combat were described as slightly underwhelming and formulaic due to the RPG Maker engine. The game is considered dense, divisive, and visually striking. Two sequels, Gingiva (2013) and Where They Cremate the Roadkill (2017), were released. Middens remains a notable example of independent RPG Maker games for its thematic criticism of video game violence and its open-ended, sinister exploration.

Did You Know?

• Middens was developed entirely by John Clowder over three months using RPG Maker XP.
• The game's composer was replaced after a falling out, leading Clowder to score the game alone.
• NPCs killed in Middens stay dead permanently and do not respawn.
• The game was inspired by Yume Nikki and Space Funeral.